How do you make better decisions in life, from your career to your finances? You use the secret framework of algebra.

1. Define Your Variable. What is the single outcome you are trying to maximize? Call it 'S' for success.

2. Identify the Factors. What are the key inputs that affect the outcome? (e.g., effort, cost, time). These are your 'x', 'y', and 'z'.

3. Build a Model. Create a simple function: S = w₁x + w₂y - w₃z. Where 'w' is the weight or importance of each factor.

4. Acknowledge Constraints. You have a limited amount of time and money. These are your inequalities.

5. Gather Data. Research your options to assign realistic values to your variables.

6. Run the Scenarios. Plug in the numbers for different choices (e.g., 'Job A' vs 'Job B') and see which one produces the highest 'S' value.

This algebraic approach forces you to be objective and clear about your priorities.

It removes emotion and replaces it with a logical, structured decision-making process.

The secret to better decisions isn't being smarter; it's using a better framework.